Indiana lawmaker wants 'truth in science'

INDIANAPOLIS, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- An Indiana state senator who sponsored a failed creationism bill now says science teachers should respond to student questions with proof of what they say.

Sen. Dennis Kruse, a Republican who heads the Education and Career Development Committee, described his proposal as a "truth in education" bill. Teachers who make assertions some students question would be required to present proof.

"It won't mention religion. It won't mention creation," he said. "It will just basically try to establish truth in our public schools."

A similar bill that passed the Tennessee Legislature appears to tie "truth" to creationism: "The teaching of some scientific subjects including, but not limited to, biological evolution, the chemical origins of life, global warming and human cloning can cause controversy."

Nate Schnellenberger, head of the Indiana State Teachers Association and a former science teacher, said students could suggest the moon landing was faked and astronauts never got there.

"How would a teacher prove that they did? I just think that it's not workable," he said.

Micah Clark, head of the American Family Association of Indiana, said Kruse's plan would protect teachers and freedom of speech.

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